Statement of Bishop Paul Loverde on Dallas Shootings

7/13/16

Arlington Bishop Paul S. Loverde issued the following
statement:

Violence begets violence - nothing else. When will we learn
this very basic and fundamental principle? This came
immediately to my mind as I learned of the horrific and
tragic killing of five Dallas police officers and the
wounding of seven others and two non-officers (at the last
reporting) and, in addition, the wounding of a police officer
in Missouri after being shot while walking to his patrol car.

Black lives matter. Indeed, they do as does the life of every
human being because he or she is created in the image and
likeness of God and possess inalienable worth and dignity.
Yes, tragic incidents occur where innocent people are
allegedly unjustly killed by some police officers. There is
the urgent need - not new - of greater understanding between
groups of peoples, including the police and the members of
the community, and between people of diverse color, and
cultural backgrounds. With greater understanding there also
must be increased cooperation on solutions that foster
respect, sensitivity, understanding of just and reasonable
laws, and ongoing patience linked with admission of mistakes,
accountability and the rule of law to adjudicate unjust
treatment and killing. And, of course, first and last and
always, there must be prayer - unceasing prayer to Almighty
God, the Source of all peace and justice.

We must pray now for all the victims of these senseless
tragedies, including those who perpetrated them. We also pray
for the safety and welfare of all law enforcement who risk
their lives to protect us. But, again, I repeat, violence
begets violence and it is never the answer. How many
tragedies like Dallas must occur before we learn this
fundamental principle? Please God, no more tragedies - never
again!